High Protein *healthy* boxed Mac & Cheese

Make it stand out

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

This is not so much a recipe as a simple cooking hack that can technically be used with any type of boxed Mac and Cheese. For the purposes of this blog though, we'll focus on some great gluten free boxed Mac and Cheese options.

I developed this hack years ago, before I realized I had a gluten issue, so I can say it works great with regular old Kraft or Annie's Mac and Cheese as well.

My boxed mac and cheese hack is so simple and yet provides so much better flavor AND a healthier, higher protein dish. All that is involved is subbing out the milk for some plain, strained, whole milk yogurt - either Greek or Icelandic style - and a bit of water to thin it out a bit. That’s it!

What I love about this hack in addition to the nutrition benefits is that many of us adults without small children in the house are more likely to have yogurt in our fridge than milk, and it generally keeps longer. Since Mac and Cheese is one of those lazy pantry raid dinners where you don’t want to have to run out to the store for an ingredient, this works out well. Truth be told, that’s how I came up with this hack. I wanted mac and cheese, but had no milk in my fridge. 

The type of yogurt you choose will affect the sharpness and tang of the “cheese” sauce. An extra tart brand like Fage is going to add a strong, sharp flavor, while something like Chobani will be more mild. My personal favorite is Siggi’s Icelandic. It’s protein rich, with a bit of bite, but not overpoweringly tart like Fage. It’s also a bit creamier so makes for better texture.

Note: Never purchase The Greek Gods “Greek” yogurt. It is not a strained, thick high protein yogurt, but just regular yogurt thickened with additives and has less than half the protein - so misleading!

For bonus healthy protein points - Use Banza chickpea boxed Mac and Cheese (also gluten-free!)

And just like with any other Mac and Cheese, you're free to take this to the next level by doctoring it up with any of your usual favorite additions (though health benefits may vary!). I love to add things like bacon, hot dogs, pork rinds, gf bread crumbs, smoked paprika, parmesan crisps, etc.

This page contains affiliate links. See disclosure policy.